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Chieftain LLC: West Seattle 4-Star Townhomes

Posted on May 5, 2020 in:
  • Case Studies

Just northwest of the Junction, hidden behind mature trees, are six townhouses built by Chieftain LLC. By retaining existing trees, the houses look as though they have been in the neighborhood for years, while a modern façade gives away their newly built status. Ideally located within short walking distance to grocery stores, restaurants, and bars, these units have a walk score of 96. In addition to their walkability, they also have stepless entrances, gaining them some points for universal design.

Beyond accessibility and location, these units were able to obtain high energy savings. By incorporating blown-in fiberglass insulation in the exterior walls, a combination of spray foam and batts in the ceiling, ductless mini-splits, and a high efficiency gas tankless water heater, these units were able to obtain energy savings of 39.5% better than a code-built house. Extremely efficient appliances, including the refrigerator, washing machine, and dryer, help contribute to the energy savings, which will translate to dollar savings for the homeowners. Better-than-code windows will help keep the temperature comfortable year-round.

Vital Stats

Section

Points

Location: West Seattle
Star Level: 4-Star
Checklist: Single-Family/Townhome
Verifier: Evergreen Certified
Site and Water 113
Energy Efficiency 102
Health and Indoor Air Quality 97
Material Efficiency 70
  Total Score 451
 

The project also used an abundance of locally produced material, including rigid insulation, framing lumber, sheetrock, cabinets, and windows. By making use of the concrete slab as a finish flooring on the main level, Chieftain was able to provide contrast to hardwood flooring on the remaining levels and keep the variety of materials used low. GreenGuard Gold stains keep the indoor air quality healthy for the homeowners.

Chieftan LLC: West Seattle 4-Star Townhome exteriors

Built Green Highlights

Site and Water

  • Drought-tolerant landscaping, no turf grass, and large trees saved onsite
  • Green factor score of 0.853
  • Low-flow WaterSense plumbing fixtures
  • Pervious hardscaping throughout

Energy Efficiency

  • 39.5% energy savings
  • Blown-in fiberglass insulation
  • Ductless space heating systems and gas tankless water heater
  • EnergyStar appliances
Chieftan LLC: West Seattle 4-Star Townhome exteriors
Chieftain LLC: West Seattle 4-Star Townhome stairs
 

Health and Indoor Air Quality

  • No carpet and finish-in-place hardwood
  • Low-VOC paints, adhesives, and finishes
  • Exhaust fan timers in bathrooms
  • No fireplaces installed

Materials Efficiency

  • Abundance of locally produced material used
  • Finished concrete first floor
  • GreenGuard certified stain used on hardwood
  • Some universal design features integrated
Chieftain LLC: West Seattle 4-Star Townhome kitchen
Chieftan LLC: West Seattle 4-Star Townhome laundry
Chieftain LLC: West Seattle 4-Star Townhome bedroom

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